Zurich: Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has hailed the FIFA Council’s decision to give Bahrain the honour to host the 67th FIFA Congress in 2017, saying it affirms Asian football achievements and the continent’s position as a world-class leader in showcasing international sports events.
Shaikh Salman said in a media statement that the FIFA Council’s decision shows recognition of Asia as the centre for international football, as the continent stands poised to host other hihh-profile events in 2017, including the FIFA U-17 World Cup in India, FIFA U-20 World Cup in Korea Republic and FIFA Club World Cup to be hosted by the UAE.
The AFC President reiterated that Bahrain has great experience and capability in hosting major international events, which makes it ready to host an event of the scale of the FIFA Congress.
He said: "The FIFA Council's unanimous decision at the meeting in Zurich gives clear indication of its confidence in the capabilities of Bahrain to make this event a success. We are happy with this decision which will place the Kingdom in the spotlight of international football and boost the country’s image at the international level.”
Shaikh Salman also guaranteed AFC’s assistance to Bahrain to host the event as part of the Confederation's role to help Member Associations host and organise competitions and events of the highest international standard.
Photo: FIFA/Getty Images
Source: the-afc.com